PS1.038 Meningioma: a diagnosis in Family Mdicine Ana Carvalho(1)

PS1.038
Meningioma: a diagnosis in Family Mdicine
Ana Carvalho(1), A Fernandes(2)
(1) ACeS Alto Ave, USF Ponte, Guimarães, Portugal
(2) ACeS Alto Ave, USF Ronfe, Guimarães, Portugal
Corresponding author: Dr Ana Carvalho, ACeS Alto Ave, USF Ponte, Cabeceiras de Basto,
Portugal. E-mail: [email protected]
Background and Aim: Meningiomas represent 20% of all primary brain tumours and 12%
of spinal tumours. It occurs more frequently in female gender and between 40 and 60 years
of age. About 90% of these tumours are benign. The present case report reveals the relevance
of a global approach to the patient with a very specific complaint.
Methods: Clinical interview and clinical process research were performed.
Results: Female patient, 46 years old. No significant pathological background. Starts a
complain of decreased visual acuity of the right eye. One week later she consults her family
doctor with total visual loss on the right. She had no ohter complaints. On physical
examination she revealed a total loss of sight on the right side and had no other findings. She
was evaluated by an ophthalmologist, who diagnosed central retinal artery occlusion and
prescribed acetylsalicylic acid. The family doctor requested a head CT, a Carotid Doppler, an
Electrocardiogram, Ecocardiogram, a complete blood cell count and a biochemical study. The
CT Scan revealed a lesion occupying space in the suprasellar cistern, a suspected
meningioma. The MRI supported the diagnosis. She had brain surgery to remove the tumour,
wich was successfull.
Conclusions: The family doctor must have the important role of actively search for a
diagnosis. The holistic approach he practices, is determinant. This is why the continuity of
medical care, even after hospital referral is of extreme importance when we're searching for a
diagnosis.